Columbia Water-Meal
Wolffia columbiana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
0.01"–0.1" H × 0.01"–0.1" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CO and 35 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Wolffia columbiana is the world's smallest flowering plant, measuring less than one-tenth of an inch across. This tiny aquatic plant floats on the surface of ponds, lakes, and slow-moving water bodies. It reproduces rapidly by budding and can form dense green mats on water surfaces.
In an HOA neighborhood
Columbia Water-Meal takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
- Requires permanent water feature which most HOAs restrict
- Can appear as algae or scum on water surface
- Not suitable for typical residential landscaping
Wildlife value
This microscopic plant provides food for waterfowl, fish, and aquatic invertebrates. While it rarely flowers, it serves as an important component of aquatic food webs.
Common questions
- How much sun does Columbia Water-Meal need?
- Columbia Water-Meal grows best in part sun conditions.
- Where is Columbia Water-Meal native?
- Columbia Water-Meal (Wolffia columbiana) is native to AL, AR, CA, CO and 35 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Columbia Water-Meal HOA-friendly?
- Columbia Water-Meal takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Columbia Water-Meal? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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